Author Archives: Jay Butchko

Do I Have A Valid Whistleblower Claim?
There have been some high-profile proceedings involving whistleblowers in recent years, but the majority of these cases do not garner media headlines. There are numerous claims filed and investigated every year, and they are no less important in achieving the goal of whistleblower laws. Individuals who come forward to expose misconduct receive protections under… Read More »

New Protections Under the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act
Though pregnant employees have enjoyed numerous protections under federal and Florida law for decades, there has not been a statute to address their specific needs on reasonable accommodations. This changed in December 2022 when US Congress enacted the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA). Previously, expectant workers would be covered by the Americans with Disabilities… Read More »

How FMLA Applies To “Key” Employees In Florida
There are many different reasons you may need time away from work, so it is reassuring to know that leave laws protect your rights as an employee while you are off. The Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows you to take up to 12 weeks off within a 12-month period, as long as you… Read More »

What Does It Mean To Exhaust Administrative Remedies Under Employment Laws?
Data on complaints of workplace discrimination were recently published for 2022, and the numbers indicate that Florida employers are going in the wrong direction with protecting employees. According to the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), there were 73,485 new charges filed for discrimination on account of race, sex, disability, age, and other protected… Read More »

Steps To Take With Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment In Florida
Sexual harassment in the workplace is a form of discrimination that is prohibited by federal law, but many employees are not aware that there are two types. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) describes one as creating a hostile work environment, which occurs when an employee is subjected to extreme, offensive behavior because of… Read More »

Evidence Needed For A Florida Race Discrimination Case
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act was passed in 1964 to protect employees from various types of misconduct in the workplace, but race discrimination is still a problem. According to Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) data on five-year average charges, there are more than 24,000 complaints filed against employers every year for race… Read More »

FAQs About Gender Discrimination And Your Rights After Being Fired
It is unlawful to discriminate against a worker because of gender, but you will not find that exact terminology in the primary law prohibiting it. Gender discrimination is covered under sex as a protected characteristic in the Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, so you still have the same legal remedies… Read More »

Ensuring Access For All: The Importance Of ADA Accessible Restrooms In Public Accommodations
Imagine a world where the simple act of using a restroom becomes an insurmountable challenge. For millions of individuals with disabilities, this is an unfortunate reality. However, thanks to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), public accommodations have a legal obligation to ensure that everyone, regardless of their physical abilities, can access restrooms with… Read More »

Overview Of EEOC Guidance On Religious Discrimination
Religion is one of the many protected characteristics listed in US and Florida anti-discrimination laws, and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is tasked with enforcement. The agency has the power to pursue charges filed by employees who allege religious discrimination in the workplace, and it can levy fines and force payment of damages…. Read More »

Enhancing Inclusivity: ADA Accessible Tables In Restaurants And Other Service Areas
It is imperative for businesses, including restaurants, to create an inclusive environment for all patrons. One crucial aspect is providing ADA accessible tables that cater to individuals with disabilities. These tables not only comply with legal requirements but also enable people of all abilities to enjoy dining out. First, we highlight the significance of… Read More »